Your brain is an imperative part of your underlying health and emotional wellness, so visiting a neurosurgery Plano TX center at one point in time may be necessary to diagnose certain conditions. Unfortunately, you may not be familiar with a few issues that can affect your neurological system. While a Chiari malformation is a rare condition, you may be affected with this abnormality in the brain. Using this guide, you will understand the symptoms of a Chiari malformation and what options are available for treatment.

Chiari Malformation: The 411 on this Brain Abnormality

Before learning the symptoms, it is important to know what this brain abnormality is and how it works. The abnormality is created when the brain’s cerebellum forms in a position abnormally lower than the brain. This lower position places pressure on the cerebellum and the brain stem, reducing many of the brain’s natural functions.

Symptoms of a Chiari Malformation

Many patients who have this brain abnormality live a normal life that is free of any symptoms. However, Chiari Malformations that have caused severe pressure and excessive buildup of cerebral fluid can cause the following symptoms in patients:

• Visual Impairments
• Dizziness
• Balance and Coordination Issues
• Headaches
• Insomnia
• Depression
• Muscle Weakness
• Numbness and Tingling in Arms and Legs
• Tinnitus/Hearing Impairments

In very rare cases, a Chiari Malformation can lead to more involved neurological issues, so diagnosing the condition as soon as possible is smart.

If you or a family member is showing one or more of the above symptoms, consult a neurosurgery Plano TX specialist immediately for diagnosis. X-rays, CT Scans, and MRIs, will all be used to determine if you or your family member has a Chiari Malformation. Also, a complete physical exam to test balance, coordination, and cognitive abilities will also be administered.

Treating a Chiari Malformation

You may find yourself frightened after a diagnosis of a Chiari Malformation. If are not experiencing any symptoms, you may not even require treatment for this brain abnormality. Unfortunately, surgery will be necessary if you are dealing with discomfort, mobility issues, and emotional distress from the condition.

A decompression surgery is effective for removing the excess cerebral fluid, reducing pressure on the cerebellum and spinal cord. This surgery can also correct any abnormalities in the bone structure, removing the lamina of the spinal cord to decrease pressure on the spinal cord and cerebellum.

A Chiari Malformation may be a rare condition, but a proper understanding of this neurological disorder is imperative. Contact the Brain & Spine Center of Texas at 972.943.9779 to learn more about this and other conditions that may require neurosurgery Plano TX.